Systems and methods for providing power to ultraviolet lamps of sanitizing systems

ABSTRACT

A powering device is configured to provide power to an ultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system. The powering device includes a power delivery assembly configured to provide power to the UV lamp, and a power controller coupled to the power delivery assembly. The power controller is configured to control one or more aspects of the power provided from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.16/987,514, entitled “Systems and Methods for Providing Power toUltraviolet Lamps of Sanitizing Systems,” filed Aug. 7, 2020 whichrelates to and claims priority benefits from U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 63/037,634, entitled “Systems and Methods for ProvidingPower to Ultraviolet Lamps of Sanitizing Systems,” filed Jun. 11, 2020,each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to sanitizingsystems, such as may be used to sanitize structures and areas withinvehicles, and more particularly to systems and methods of providingpower to ultraviolet lamps of the sanitizing systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Vehicles such as commercial aircraft are used to transport passengersbetween various locations. Systems are currently being developed todisinfect or otherwise sanitize surfaces within aircraft, for example,that use ultraviolet (UV) light.

In order to sanitize a surface of a structure, a known UV lightsterilization method emits a broad spectrum UVC light onto thestructure. However, UVC light typically takes a significant amount oftime (for example, three minutes) to kill various microbes. Further,various microbes may not be vulnerable to UVC light. That is, suchmicrobes may be able to withstand exposure to UVC light.

Also, certain types of microbes may develop a resistance to UVC light.For example, while UVC light may initially kill certain types ofmicrobes, with continued exposure to UVC light over time, the particularspecies of microbe may develop a resistance to UVC light and be able towithstand UVC light exposure.

Additionally, direct exposure of certain types of UV light may pose riskto humans. For example, certain known UV systems emit UV light having awavelength of 254 nm, which may pose a risk to humans. As such, certainknown UV light disinfection systems and methods are operated in theabsence of individuals. For example, a UV light disinfection systemwithin a lavatory may be operated when no individual is within thelavatory, and deactivated when an individual is present within thelavatory.

Further, known UV light sanitizing systems are typically large, bulky,and often require fixed, stationary infrastructure.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A need exists for a system and a method for providing power toultraviolet lamps of portable sanitizing systems.

With those needs in mind, certain embodiments of the present disclosureprovide a powering device configured to provide power to an ultraviolet(UV) lamp of a sanitizing system. The powering device includes a powerdelivery assembly configured to provide power to the UV lamp, and apower controller coupled to the power delivery assembly. The powercontroller is configured to control one or more aspects of the powerprovided from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device further includes one ormore potentiometers coupled to the power controller and configured toadjust or otherwise control frequency, pulse width modulation, andcurrent with respect to the power provided to the UV lamp.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device further includes acoupler that connects the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp. Thecoupler may be (or include) a twisted pair of insulated wires. Thecoupler may be (or include) a coaxial cable including an insulationlayer and a metallic shielding layer that surrounds the insulationlayer.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device further includes atransformer disposed between the power delivery assembly and the UVlamp.

In at least one embodiment, the power delivery assembly includes anexternal power interface, a charger, a battery pack, and at least onecapacitor. The charger is configured to receive electric current fromthe external power interface and supply the electric current to at leastone of the battery pack or the at least one capacitor.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device further includes a powerboost switch selectively actuatable to command a temporary powerincrease from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method ofproviding power to an ultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system. Themethod includes providing, by a power delivery assembly of a poweringdevice, power to the UV lamp; and controlling, from a power controllercoupled to the power delivery assembly, one or more aspects of the powerprovided from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a powering deviceconfigured to provide power to an ultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizingsystem, the powering device includes a power delivery assembly, a powercontroller, one or more potentiometers, a transformer, and a coupler.The power delivery assembly includes a battery pack and at least onecapacitor and is configured to provide power to the UV lamp. The powercontroller is coupled to the power delivery assembly and is configuredto control one or more aspects of the power provided from the powerdelivery assembly to the UV lamp. The one or more potentiometers arecoupled to the power controller and are configured to adjust orotherwise control frequency, pulse width modulation, and current withrespect to the power provided to the UV lamp. The transformer isdisposed between the power delivery assembly and the UV lamp. The atleast one capacitor is configured to receive electric current from thebattery pack and supply the electric current to the transformer. Thecoupler connects the transformer to the UV lamp. The coupler includes atleast one insulated wire that is surrounded by a metallic shieldinglayer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a portable sanitizing systemworn by an individual, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective lateral top view of a wand assembly,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of the wand assembly of FIG.2 .

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective lateral view of the wand assembly ofFIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing systemin a compact deployed position, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing systemhaving a sanitizing head in an extended position, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing systemhaving the sanitizing head in an extended position and a handle in anextended position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing systemhaving the sanitizing head rotated in relation to the handle, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective end view of a UV lamp and a reflectorof the sanitizing head, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective end view of a UV lamp and a reflectorof the sanitizing head, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective end view of a UV lamp and a reflectorof the sanitizing head, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective top view of the sanitizing head.

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective bottom view of the sanitizing head.

FIG. 14 illustrates an axial cross-sectional view of the sanitizing headthrough line 14-14 of FIG. 12 .

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective end view of the UV lamp secured to amounting bracket, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective exploded view of a backpack assembly,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective front view of a harness coupled to abackpack assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 18 illustrates an ultraviolet light spectrum.

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft, accordingto an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin ofan aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective internal view of a lavatory within aninternal cabin of an aircraft.

FIG. 23 illustrates a flow chart of a portable sanitizing method,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 24 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a system for providingpower to an ultraviolet lamp of a wand assembly, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 25 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system for providing powerto an ultraviolet lamp of a wand assembly, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 26 illustrates a flow chart of a method of providing power to anultraviolet lamp of a sanitizing system, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system for providing powerto an ultraviolet lamp of a wand assembly, in which the system includesa power delivery assembly according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 28 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system for providing powerto an ultraviolet lamp of a wand assembly, in which the system includesa power delivery assembly according to another embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofcertain embodiments will be better understood when read in conjunctionwith the appended drawings. As used herein, an element or step recitedin the singular and preceded by the word “a” or “an” should beunderstood as not necessarily excluding the plural of the elements orsteps. Further, references to “one embodiment” are not intended to beinterpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments thatalso incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitlystated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising” or “having” an elementor a plurality of elements having a particular condition can includeadditional elements not having that condition.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a sanitizingsystem and method that includes an ultraviolet (UV) lamp (such as anexcimer lamp) that emits UV light in a far UV light spectrum, such as ata wavelength of 222 nm, which neutralizes (such as kills) microbes (forexample, viruses and bacteria), while posing no risk to humans. The UVlamp may be used within an internal cabin to decontaminate and killpathogens. Embodiments of the present disclosure provide safer and moreeffective sanitation as compared to certain known UV systems. The UVlamp may be used in a portable sanitizing system or a fixed sanitizingsystem. For example, operating the UV lamp to emit sanitizing UV lighthaving a wavelength of 222 nm may be used with a portable system or afixed system.

Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems andmethods of providing power to UV lamps, such as excimer lamps and metalvapor lamps. In at least one embodiment, the UV lamp is an excimer lampof a portable sanitizing system.

In at least one embodiment, the systems and methods include a portablepowering device that is configured to be used with batteries to providepower to a UV lamp, such as an excimer lamp, that is configured to emitUV light having a wavelength in the far UV wavelength range of theelectromagnetic spectrum. For example, the UV lamp is configured to emitUV light having a wavelength between 220 nm and 230 nm, such as 222 nm.In at least one other embodiment, the portable powering device isconfigured to provide power to a UV lamp, such as a non-excimer metalvapor plasma lamp, that is configured to emit UV light having awavelength in the UVC wavelength range of the electromagnetic spectrum.For example, the wavelength may be from 230 nm to 280 nm, such as 254nm.

The portable powering device includes a power source, which may includeone or more batteries and/or an external power interface (e.g.,electrical plug, connector, adaptor, and/or the like). The portablepowering device also includes a power controller that includes one ormore potentiometers that are configured to adjust frequency, pulse widthmodulation, and/or current. The portable powering device also includesone or more switching devices. The one or more switching devices mayinclude an on/off power switch, a power boost switch, and/or an optionalUV lamp power switch. An insulated wire of the portable powering deviceconnects to the UV lamp, which may be within a wand assembly.

The portable powering device is configured to provide direct current(DC) voltage to the UV lamp to increase operational efficiency and poweroutput of the UV lamp. The increased efficiency and/or power output canbe achieved by the portable powering device varying the frequency andpulse width of the input DC voltage. Adjustments for the system includecontrolling nominal output power/efficiency, adjusting pulse widthfrequency and lamp efficiency, and adjusting overcurrent.

In at least one embodiment, the systems and methods are configured toprovide power to a UV lamp that requires high voltage. The powercontroller for the UV lamp is configurable by adjusting one or morepotentiometers to provide maximum or otherwise increased UV light outputwith minimal or reduced amount of power.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a portable sanitizing system100 worn by an individual 101, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The portable sanitizing system 100 includes a wand assembly102 coupled to a backpack assembly 104 that is removably secured to theindividual through a harness 105. The wand assembly 102 includes asanitizing head 106 coupled to a handle 108. In at least one embodiment,the sanitizing head 106 is moveably coupled to the handle 108 through acoupler 110.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the wand assembly 102 is in a stowed position. Inthe stowed position, the wand assembly 102 is removably secured to aportion of the backpack assembly 104, such as through one or moretracks, clips, latches, belts, ties, and/or the like.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective lateral top view of the wand assembly102, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Thesanitizing head 106 couples to the handle 108 through the coupler 110.The sanitizing head 106 includes a shroud 112 having an outer cover 114that extends from a proximal end 116 to a distal end 118. As describedherein, the shroud 112 contains a UV lamp.

A port 120 extends from the proximal end 116. The port 120 couples to ahose 122, which, in turn, couples to the backpack assembly 104 (shown inFIG. 1 ). The hose 122 contains electrical cords, cables, wiring, or thelike that couples a power source or supply (such as one or morebatteries) within the backpack assembly 104 (shown in FIG. 1 ) to a UVlamp 140 within the shroud 112. Optionally, the electrical cords,cables, wiring, or the like may be outside of the hose 122. The hose 122also contains an air delivery line, such as an air tube) that fluidlycouples an internal chamber of the shroud 112 to an air blower, vacuumgenerator, air filters, and/or the like within the backpack assembly104.

The coupler 110 is secured to the outer cover 114 of the shroud 112,such as proximate to the proximal end 116. The coupler 110 may include asecuring beam 124 secured to the outer cover 114, such as through one ormore fasteners, adhesives, and/or the like. An extension beam 126outwardly extends from the securing beam 124, thereby spacing the handle108 from the shroud 112. A bearing assembly 128 extends from theextension beam 126 opposite from the securing beam 124. The bearingassembly 128 includes one or more bearings, tracks, and/or the like,which allow the handle 108 to linearly translate relative to the coupler110 in the directions of arrows A, and/or pivot about a pivot axle inthe directions of arc B. Optionally, the securing beam 124 may include abearing assembly that allows the sanitizing head 106 to translate in thedirections of arrows A, and/or rotate (for example, swivel) in thedirections of arc B in addition to, or in place of, the handle 108 beingcoupled to the bearing assembly 128 (for example, the handle 108 may befixed to the coupler 110).

In at least one embodiment, the handle 108 includes a rod, pole, beam,or the like 130, which may be longer than the shroud 112. Optionally,the rod 130 may be shorter than the shroud 112. One or more grips 132are secured to the rod 130. The grips 132 are configured to be graspedand held by an individual. The grips 132 may include ergonomic tactilefeatures 134.

Optionally, the wand assembly 102 may be sized and shaped differentlythan shown. For example, in at least one embodiment, the handle 108 maybe fixed in relation to the shroud 112. Further, the handle 108 may ormay not be configured to move relative to itself and/or the shroud 112.For example, the handle 108 and the shroud 112 may be integrally moldedand formed as a single unit.

In at least one embodiment, the wand assembly 102 is not coupled to abackpack assembly. For example, the wand assembly 102 is a standaloneunit having a power source, such as one or more batteries. As anotherexample, the wand assembly 102 is coupled to a case assembly.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of the wand assembly 102 ofFIG. 2 . FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective lateral view of the wandassembly 102 of FIG. 2 . Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4 , the handle 108 maypivotally couple to the coupler 110 through a bearing 136 having a pivotaxle 138 that pivotally couples the handle 108 to the coupler 110. Thehandle 108 may further be configured to linearly translate into and outof the bearing 136. For example, the handle 108 may be configured totelescope in and out. Optionally, or alternatively, in at least oneembodiment, the handle 108 may include a telescoping body that allowsthe handle 108 to outwardly extend and inwardly recede.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing system100 in a compact deployed position, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. The wand assembly 102 is removed from the backpackassembly 104 (as shown in FIG. 1 ) into the compact deployed position,as shown in FIG. 5 . The hose 122 connects the wand assembly 102 to thebackpack assembly 104. In the compact deployed position, the sanitizinghead 106 is fully retracted in relation to the handle 108.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing system100 having the sanitizing head 106 in an extended position, according toan embodiment of the present disclosure. In order to extend thesanitizing head 106 relative to the handle 108, the sanitizing head 106is outwardly slid relative to the handle 108 in the direction of arrowA′ (or the handle 108 is rearwardly slid relative to the sanitizing head106). As noted, the sanitizing head 106 is able to linearly translate inthe direction of arrow A′ relative to the handle 108 via the coupler110. The outward extension of the sanitizing head 106, as shown in FIG.6 , allows for the portable sanitizing system 100 to easily reachdistant areas. Alternatively, the sanitizing head 106 may not linearlytranslate relative to the handle 108.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing system100 having the sanitizing head 106 in an extended position and thehandle 108 in an extended position, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. To reach even further, the handle 108 may beconfigured to linearly translate, such as through a telescoping portion,to allow the sanitizing head 106 to reach further outwardly.Alternatively, the handle 108 may not be configured to extend andretract.

In at least one embodiment, the handle 108 may include a lock 109. Thelock 109 is configured to be selectively operated to secure the handle108 into a desired extended (or retracted) position.

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the portable sanitizing system100 having the sanitizing head 106 rotated in relation to the handle108, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As noted, thesanitizing head 106 is configured to rotate relative to the handle 108via the coupler 110. Rotating the sanitizing head 106 relative to thehandle 108 allows the sanitizing head 106 to be moved to a desiredposition, and sweep or otherwise reach into areas that would otherwisebe difficult to reach if the sanitizing head 106 was rigidly fixed tothe handle 108. Alternatively, the sanitizing head 106 may not berotatable relative to the handle 108.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective end view of a UV lamp 140 and areflector 142 of the sanitizing head 106, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. The UV lamp 140 and the reflector 142 aresecured within the shroud 112 (shown in FIG. 2 , for example) of thesanitizing head 106. In at least one embodiment, the reflector 142 issecured to an underside 141 of the shroud 112, such as through one ormore adhesives. As another example, the reflector 142 is an integralpart of the shroud 112. For example, the reflector 142 may be orotherwise provide the underside 141 of the shroud 112. The reflector 142provides a reflective surface 143 (such as formed of Teflon, a mirroredsurface, and/or the like) that is configured to outwardly reflect UVlight emitted by the UV lamp 140. In at least one example, shroud 112may be or include a shell formed of fiberglass, and the reflector 142may be formed of Teflon that provides a 98% reflectivity.

The reflector 142 may extend along an entire length of the underside 141of the shroud 112. Optionally, the reflector 142 may extend along lessthan an entire length of the underside 141 of the shroud 112.

The UV lamp 140 may extend along an entire length (or alongsubstantially the entire length, such as between the ends 116 and 118).The UV lamp 140 is secured to the reflector 142 and/or the shroud 112through one or more brackets, for example. The UV lamp 140 includes oneor more UV light emitters, such as one more bulbs, light emittingelements (such as light emitting diodes), and/or the like. In at leastone embodiment, the UV lamp 140 is configured to emit UV light in thefar UV spectrum, such as at a wavelength between 200 nm-230 nm. In atleast one embodiment, the UV lamp 140 is configured to emit UV lighthaving a wavelength of 222 nm. For example, the UV lamp 140 may be orinclude a 300 W bulb that is configured to emit UV light having awavelength of 222 nm. In at least one other embodiment, the UV lamp 140is configured to emit UV light in the UVC spectrum, such as at awavelength between 230 nm-280 nm.

As shown, the reflector 142 includes flat, upright side walls 144connected together through an upper curved wall 146. The upper curvedwall 146 may be bowed outwardly away from the UV lamp 140. For example,the upper curved wall 146 may have a parabolic cross-section and/orprofile.

It has been found that the straight, linear side walls 144 providedesired reflection and/or focusing of UV light emitted from the UV lamp140 toward and onto a desired location. Alternatively, the side walls144 may not be linear and flat.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective end view of the UV lamp 140 and areflector 142 of the sanitizing head, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. The reflector 142 shown in FIG. 10 is similar to thereflector 142 shown in FIG. 9 , except that the side walls 144 mayoutwardly cant from the upper curved wall 146.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective end view of the UV lamp 140 and thereflector 142 of the sanitizing head, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. In this embodiment, the side walls 144 may be curvedaccording to the curvature of the upper curved wall 146.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective top view of the sanitizing head 106.FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective bottom view of the sanitizing head106. FIG. 14 illustrates an axial cross-sectional view of the sanitizinghead 106 through line 14-14 of FIG. 12 . Referring to FIGS. 12-14 , air150 is configured to be drawn into the sanitizing head 106 through oneor more openings 152 (or simply an open chamber) of the shroud 112. Theair 150 is drawn into the sanitizing head 106, such as via a vacuumgenerator within the backpack assembly 104 (shown in FIG. 1 ). The air150 is drawn into the shroud 112, and cools the UV lamp 140 as it passesover and around the UV lamp 140. The air 150 passes into the port 120and into the hose 122, such as within an air tube within the hose 122.The air 150 not only cools the UV lamp 140, but also removes ozone,which may be generated by operation of the UV lamp 140, within theshroud 112. The air 150 may be drawn to an air filter, such as anactivated carbon filter, within the backpack assembly 104.

In at least one embodiment, the portable sanitizing system 100 may alsoinclude an alternative ozone mitigation system. As an example, the ozonemitigation system may be disposed in the shroud 112 or another portionof the system, and may include an inert gas bath, or a face inert gassystem, such as in U.S. Pat. No. 10,232,954.

Referring to FIG. 13 , in particular, a bumper 153 may be secured to anexposed lower circumferential edge 155 of the shroud 112. The bumper 153may be formed of a resilient material, such as rubber, anotherelastomeric material, open or closed cell foam, and/or the like. Thebumper 153 protects the sanitizing head 106 from damage in case thesanitizing head 106 inadvertently contacts a surface. The bumper 153also protects the surface from damage.

The openings 152 may be spaced around the lower surface of the shroud112 such that they do not provide a direct view of the UV lamp 140. Forexample, the openings 152 may be positioned underneath portions that arespaced apart from the UV lamp 140.

Referring to FIG. 14 , in particular, the sanitizing head 106 mayinclude a cover plate 154 below the UV lamp 140. The cover plate 154 maybe formed of glass, for example, and may be configured to filter UVlight emitted by the UV lamp 140. The UV lamp 140 may be secured withinan interior chamber 156 defined between the reflector 142 and the coverplate 154. In at least one embodiment, the cover plate 154 is orotherwise includes a far UV band pass filter. For example, the coverplate 154 may be a 222 nm band pass filter that filters UV light emittedby the UV lamp 140 to a 222 nm wavelength. As such, UV light that isemitted from the sanitizing head 106 may be emitted at a wavelength of222 nm.

Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , a rim 157 (such as a 0.020″ thickTitanium rim) may connect the cover plate 154 to the shroud 112. The rim157 may distribute impact loads therethrough and/or therearound.

In at least one embodiment, ranging light emitting diodes (LEDs) 159 maybe disposed proximate to ends of the UV lamp 140. The ranging LEDs 159may be used to determine a desired range to a structure that is to besanitized, for example. In at least one embodiment, the ranging LEDs 159may be disposed on or within the rim 157 and/or the cover plate 154.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective end view of the UV lamp 140 secured toa mounting bracket or clamp 160, according to an embodiment of thepresent disclosure. Each end of the UV lamp 140 may be coupled tomounting bracket or clamp 160, which secures the UV lamp 140 to theshroud 112 (shown in FIGS. 12-14 ). A buffer, such as a thin (forexample, 0.040″) sheet of silicon may be disposed between the end of theUV lamp 140 and the bracket 160. Optionally, the UV lamp 140 may besecured to the shroud 112 through brackets or clamps that differ in sizeand shape than shown. As another example, the UV lamp 140 may be securedto the shroud 112 through adhesives, fasteners, and/or the like.

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective exploded view of the backpack assembly104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The backpackassembly 104 includes a front wall 170 that couples to a rear shell 172,a base 174, and a top cap 176. An internal chamber 178 is definedbetween the front wall 170, the rear shell 172, the base 174, and thetop cap 176. One or more batteries 180, such as rechargeable Lithiumbatteries, are contained within the internal chamber 178. An airgeneration sub-system 182 is also contained within the internal chamber178. The air generation sub-system 182 is in fluid communication with anair tube within the hose 122 (shown in FIG. 2 , for example). The airgeneration sub-system 182 may include an airflow device, such as avacuum generator, an air blower, and/or the like. The airflow device isconfigured to generate airflow to cool the UV lamp, draw air from thesanitizing head 106 into the backpack assembly 104 and out through anexhaust, draw or otherwise remove generated ozone away from the shroud112, and/or the like.

One or more air filters 183, such as carbon filters, are within thebackpack assembly 104. The air filters 183 are in communication with theair tube or other such delivery duct or line that routes air through thehose 122 and into the backpack assembly 104. The air filters 183 areconfigured to filter the air that is drawn into the backpack assembly104 from the shroud 112. For example, the air filters 183 may beconfigured to remove, deactivate, or otherwise neutralize ozone.

The batteries 180 and/or a power supply or controller within thebackpack assembly 104 provides operating power for the UV lamp 140 ofthe sanitizing head 106 (shown in FIG. 2 , for example). The top cap 176may be removably coupled to the front wall 170 and the rear shell 172.The top cap 176 may be removed to provide access to the batteries 180(such as to remove and/or recharge the batteries), for example.Additional space may be provided within the backpack assembly 104 forstorage of supplies, additional batteries, additional components, and/orthe like. In at least one embodiment, the front wall 170, the rear shell172, the base 174, and the top cap 176 may be formed of fiberglassepoxy.

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective front view of the harness 105 coupledto the backpack assembly 104, according to an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The harness 105 may include shoulder straps 190 and/or awaist or hip belt or strap 192, which allow the individual tocomfortably wear the backpack assembly 104.

Referring to FIGS. 1-17 , in operation, the individual may walk throughan area wearing the backpack assembly 104. When a structure to besanitized is found, the individual may position grasp the handle 108 andposition the sanitizing head 106 as desired, such as by extending and/orrotating the sanitizing head 106 relative to the handle 108. Theindividual may then engage an activation button on the handle 108, forexample, to activate the UV lamp 140 to emit sanitizing UV light ontothe structure. As the UV lamp 140 is activated, air 150 is drawn intothe shroud 112 to cool the UV lamp 140, and divert any generated ozoneinto the backpack assembly 104, where it is filtered by the air filters183.

The extendable wand assembly 102 allows the sanitizing head 106 to reachdistant areas, such as over an entire set of three passenger seats, froma row within an internal cabin of a commercial aircraft.

FIG. 18 illustrates an ultraviolet light spectrum. Referring to FIGS.1-18 , in at least one embodiment, the sanitizing head 106 is configuredto emit sanitizing UV light (through operation of the UV lamp 140)within a far UV spectrum, such as between 200 nm to 230 nm. In at leastone embodiment, the sanitizing head 106 emits sanitizing UV light havinga wavelength of 222 nm.

It has been found that sanitizing UV light having a wavelength of 222 nmkills pathogens (such as viruses and bacteria), instead of inactivatingpathogens. In contrast, UVC light at a wavelength of 254 nm inactivatespathogens by interfering with their DNA, resulting in temporaryinactivation, but may not kill the pathogens. Instead, the pathogen maybe reactivated by exposure to ordinary white light at a reactivationrate of about 10% per hour. As such, UVC light at a wavelength of 254 nmmay be ineffective in illuminated areas, such as within an internalcabin of a vehicle. Moreover, UVC light at 254 nm is not recommended forhuman exposure because it may be able to penetrate human cells.

In contrast, sanitizing UV light having a wavelength of 222 nm is safefor human exposure and kills pathogens. Further, the sanitizing UV lighthaving a wavelength of 222 nm may be emitted at full power within onemillisecond or less of the UV lamp 140 being activated (in contrast theUVC light having a wavelength of 254 nm, which may take seconds or evenminutes to reach full power).

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective front view of an aircraft 210,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 210includes a propulsion system 212 that includes engines 214, for example.Optionally, the propulsion system 212 may include more engines 14 thanshown. The engines 214 are carried by wings 216 of the aircraft 210. Inother embodiments, the engines 214 may be carried by a fuselage 218and/or an empennage 220. The empennage 220 may also support horizontalstabilizers 222 and a vertical stabilizer 224.

The fuselage 218 of the aircraft 210 defines an internal cabin 230,which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work sections (forexample, galleys, personnel carry-on baggage areas, and the like), oneor more passenger sections (for example, first class, business class,and coach sections), one or more lavatories, and/or the like. Theinternal cabin 230 includes one or more lavatory systems, lavatoryunits, or lavatories, as described herein.

Alternatively, instead of an aircraft, embodiments of the presentdisclosure may be used with various other vehicles, such as automobiles,buses, locomotives and train cars, watercraft, and the like. Further,embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with respect to fixedstructures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

FIG. 20A illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 230 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 230 may be within the fuselage 232 of the aircraft, suchas the fuselage 218 of FIG. 19 . For example, one or more fuselage wallsmay define the internal cabin 230. The internal cabin 230 includesmultiple sections, including a front section 233, a first class section234, a business class section 236, a front galley station 238, anexpanded economy or coach section 240, a standard economy of coachsection 242, and an aft section 244, which may include multiplelavatories and galley stations. It is to be understood that the internalcabin 230 may include more or less sections than shown. For example, theinternal cabin 230 may not include a first class section, and mayinclude more or less galley stations than shown. Each of the sectionsmay be separated by a cabin transition area 246, which may include classdivider assemblies between aisles 248.

As shown in FIG. 20A, the internal cabin 230 includes two aisles 250 and252 that lead to the aft section 244. Optionally, the internal cabin 230may have less or more aisles than shown. For example, the internal cabin230 may include a single aisle that extends through the center of theinternal cabin 230 that leads to the aft section 244.

The aisles 248, 250, and 252 extend to egress paths or door passageways260. Exit doors 262 are located at ends of the egress paths 260. Theegress paths 260 may be perpendicular to the aisles 248, 250, and 252.The internal cabin 230 may include more egress paths 260 at differentlocations than shown. The portable sanitizing system 100 shown anddescribed with respect to FIGS. 1-18 may be used to sanitize variousstructures within the internal cabin 230, such as passenger seats,monuments, stowage bin assemblies, components on and within lavatories,galley equipment and components, and/or the like.

FIG. 20B illustrates a top plan view of an internal cabin 280 of anaircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Theinternal cabin 280 is an example of the internal cabin 230 shown in FIG.19 . The internal cabin 280 may be within a fuselage 281 of theaircraft. For example, one or more fuselage walls may define theinternal cabin 280. The internal cabin 280 includes multiple sections,including a main cabin 282 having passenger seats 283, and an aftsection 285 behind the main cabin 282. It is to be understood that theinternal cabin 280 may include more or less sections than shown.

The internal cabin 280 may include a single aisle 284 that leads to theaft section 285. The single aisle 284 may extend through the center ofthe internal cabin 280 that leads to the aft section 285. For example,the single aisle 284 may be coaxially aligned with a centrallongitudinal plane of the internal cabin 280.

The aisle 284 extends to an egress path or door passageway 290. Exitdoors 292 are located at ends of the egress path 290. The egress path290 may be perpendicular to the aisle 284. The internal cabin 280 mayinclude more egress paths than shown. The portable sanitizing system 100shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-18 may be used to sanitizevarious structures within the internal cabin 230, such as passengerseats, monuments, stowage bin assemblies, components on and withinlavatories, galley equipment and components, and/or the like.

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective interior view of an internal cabin 300of an aircraft, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.The internal cabin 300 includes outboard walls 302 connected to aceiling 304. Windows 306 may be formed within the outboard walls 302. Afloor 308 supports rows of seats 310. As shown in FIG. 21 , a row 312may include two seats 310 on either side of an aisle 313. However, therow 312 may include more or less seats 310 than shown. Additionally, theinternal cabin 300 may include more aisles than shown.

Passenger service units (PSUs) 314 are secured between an outboard wall302 and the ceiling 304 on either side of the aisle 313. The PSUs 314extend between a front end and rear end of the internal cabin 300. Forexample, a PSU 314 may be positioned over each seat 310 within a row312. Each PSU 314 may include a housing 316 that generally containsvents, reading lights, an oxygen bag drop panel, an attendant requestbutton, and other such controls over each seat 310 (or groups of seats)within a row 312.

Overhead stowage bin assemblies 318 are secured to the ceiling 304and/or the outboard wall 302 above and inboard from the PSU 314 oneither side of the aisle 313. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 318are secured over the seats 310. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 318extend between the front and rear end of the internal cabin 300. Eachstowage bin assembly 318 may include a pivot bin or bucket 320 pivotallysecured to a strongback (hidden from view in FIG. 21 ). The overheadstowage bin assemblies 318 may be positioned above and inboard fromlower surfaces of the PSUs 314. The overhead stowage bin assemblies 318are configured to be pivoted open in order to receive passenger carry-onbaggage and personal items, for example.

As used herein, the term “outboard” means a position that is furtheraway from a central longitudinal plane 322 of the internal cabin 300 ascompared to another component. The term “inboard” means a position thatis closer to the central longitudinal plane 322 of the internal cabin300 as compared to another component. For example, a lower surface of aPSU 314 may be outboard in relation to a stowage bin assembly 318.

The portable sanitizing system 100 shown and described with respect toFIGS. 1-18 may be used to sanitize various structures shown within theinternal cabin 300.

When not in use, the portable sanitizing system 100 may be stored withina closet, galley cart bay, or galley cart, such as within the internalcabin of the vehicle.

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective internal view of a lavatory 330 withinan internal cabin of a vehicle, such as any of the internal cabinsdescribed herein. The lavatory 330 is an example of an enclosed space,monument or chamber, such as within the internal cabin a vehicle. Thelavatory 330 may be onboard an aircraft, as described above. Optionally,the lavatory 330 may be onboard various other vehicles. In otherembodiments, the lavatory 330 may be within a fixed structure, such as acommercial or residential building. The lavatory 330 includes a basefloor 331 that supports a toilet 332, cabinets 334, and a sink 336 orwash basin. The lavatory 330 may be arranged differently than shown. Thelavatory 330 may include more or less components than shown. Theportable sanitizing system 100 shown and described with respect to FIGS.1-18 may be used to sanitize the various structures, components, andsurfaces within the lavatory 330.

FIG. 23 illustrates a flow chart of a portable sanitizing method,according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The methodincludes emitting (400), from a sanitizing head including an ultraviolet(UV) lamp, UV light having a wavelength between 200 nm-230 nm onto asurface; and disinfecting (402) the surface by said emitting (400). Inat least one embodiment, said emitting (400) includes emitting the UVlight having a wavelength of 222 nm.

In at least embodiment, the portable sanitizing method further includesmoveably coupling a handle to the sanitizing head. For example, saidmoveably coupling includes one or both of linearly translating orswiveling the sanitizing head in relation to the handle.

In at least one embodiment, the portable sanitizing method includescoupling a backpack assembly to the sanitizing head through a hose.

Referring to FIGS. 1-23 , the portable sanitizing system 100 can be usedto safely and effectively sanitize high-touch surfaces in the flightdeck and internal cabin in a timely and cost-effective manner. UVdisinfection allows the internal cabin to be quickly and effectivelydisinfected, such as between flights. In at least one embodiment, theportable sanitizing system 100 is used to augment a cleaning process,such as after manual cleaning.

As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure providesystems and a methods for efficiently sterilizing surfaces, components,structures, and/or the like within an internal cabin of a vehicle.Further, embodiments of the present disclosure provide compact,easy-to-use, and safe systems and methods for using UV light tosterilize surfaces within an internal cabin.

FIG. 24 illustrates a schematic block diagram of a system 500 forproviding power to a UV lamp 140 of a wand assembly 102, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the UVlamp 140 is within a sanitizing head 106 of the wand assembly 102. Thewand assembly 102 may or may not include a handle. The handle may or maynot be moveable in relation to the sanitizing head 106.

In at least one embodiment, the UV lamp 140 is an excimer lamp (alsoknown as a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) lamp). Excimer lampsinclude a noble gas and a halogen gas, and the interaction of thesegases emits light in the UV wavelength, such as the far UV range. A highfrequency alternating current (AC) power source is used to excite thegases. In at least one embodiment, the high frequency AC power sourcemay be a bridge circuit, which can vary the pulse width to achievestable output and/or vary the frequency to achieve a stable voltageand/or power output. An example of the circuitry that can be used toexcite an excimer lamp is shown in FIG. 25 , and described below. Theconstruction of the excimer lamp relies on the capacitance of dielectricbarrier(s) to limit high frequency current versus having a shortcircuit. This capacitance may cause high frequency resonances. Theresonances of the UV excimer lamp may be utilized with the drivecircuitry of the portable powering device.

As stated above, the portable powering device according to theembodiments herein can also be used to power a metal vapor plasma UVlamp (e.g., non-excimer). Such metal vapor lamps can include mercuryvapor, sodium vapor, and/or the like, and applies a current through aconducting metal vapor plasma to produce UV light. The current utilizedin metal vapor lamps can be AC or DC and have a wide range offrequencies.

The UV lamp 140 is configured to emit UV light having a wavelength of222 nm. Optionally, the UV lamp 140 may be configured to emit UV lighthaving a different wavelength. For example, the UV lamp 140 may beconfigured to emit UV light having a wavelength between 220 nm and 230nm. In at least one other embodiment, the UV lamp 140 may be configuredto emit UV light in the UVC spectrum.

The system 500 includes a powering device 502 that is configured toprovide power to the UV lamp 140. The powering device 502 includes ahousing 504. The powering device 502 may be contained within thebackpack assembly 104 shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 . As an example, thepowering device 502 may include or replace the batteries 180. In atleast one other embodiment, the powering device 502 is separate anddistinct from the backpack assembly 104. For example, the poweringdevice 502 is a portable device that is configured to selectively coupleto and decouple from the wand assembly 102. In at least one embodiment,the powering device 502 may be a handheld device.

The housing 504 of the powering device 502 includes one or morebatteries 506 and a power controller 508, which includes or is otherwisecoupled to one or more potentiometers 510. The power controller 508 iscoupled to the batteries 506, such as through one or more wired orwireless connections. The one or more batteries 506 are configured toprovide power to the UV lamp 140. The power controller 508 is configuredto control one or more aspects of the power delivered from the batteries506 to the UV lamp 140.

The powering device 502 may also include a plurality of switches on orwithin the housing 504. For example, the powering device 502 includes apower switch 512, a power boost switch 514, and/or a lamp power switch516. Optionally, the power switch 512, the power boost switch 514, andthe lamp power switch 516 may be on or within the wand assembly 102.

A coupler 518 extends from the batteries 506 and is configured toconnect to the UV lamp 140. For example, the coupler 518 may be at leastone lead having an output end 520 that connects to a power input 522 ofthe UV lamp 140. The at least one lead may be one or more insulatedwires, metal bars, circuit boards, and/or the like. In at least oneembodiment, the coupler 518 includes multiple insulated lead wires, andthe configuration of the lead wires can “tune” the UV lamp 140 for oneor more properties, such as for higher power output. For example, themultiple insulated wires may be twisted around each other and/orsurrounded by a shield layer, either of which may increase the loadcapacitance and change the resonance of the UV lamp 140 system. In anon-limiting example, an excimer UV lamp directly connected to the powersupply (e.g., via untwisted and/or unshielded electrically conductiveelements) may produce 9-10 mW of UV light while drawing 375 W. By addinga shielding layer and/or twisting longer wires that represent thecoupler 518, the resonance changes and, as a result, the power draw mayincrease to 750 W and the UV light output may increase to 20 mW, withoutadjusting the power supply. As such, the shielding and/or twist of theinsulated lead wires can be used to tune the excimer lamp load.

In at least one embodiment, the output end 520 may be a plug that isconfigured to removably connect to the power input 522. Optionally, thecoupler 518 may be a fixed connection (that is, not removably connected)between the UV lamp 140 and the powering device 502. For example, thepowering device 502 may be secured to, or otherwise form part of, thewand assembly 102. In at least one embodiment, the powering device 502may be part of a control panel of the wand assembly 102.

The powering device 502 is configured to provide power to the UV lamp140, such as an excimer lamp that is configured to emit UV light havinga wavelength between 220 nm-230 nm. For example, the batteries 506 andthe power controller 508 cooperate to provide power to the UV lamp 140.

The potentiometers 510 are configured to adjust or otherwise controlfrequency, pulse width modulation, and/or current with respect to thepower provided to the UV lamp 140. The power switch 512 may be a pushbutton, for example. The power switch 512 may be engaged by a user toactivate the powering device 502 to provide power to the UV lamp 140.The user may selectively engage the power switch 512 to selectivelyprovide power to the UV lamp 140.

In at least one embodiment, the portable powering device 502 includes anon/off switch (such as the power switch), the power boost switch 514,and an optional switch to control UV lamp power switch 516. The powerboost switch 514 may be engaged by a user to provide increased orboosted power to the UV lamp through the power controller 508 and/or thebatteries 506. The UV lamp power switch 516 may be engaged by the userto adjust power of the UV lamp 140, which is coupled to the poweringdevice 502 through the coupler 518. In at least one embodiment, the oneor more potentiometers 510 of the power controller 508 are configured tocontrol nominal output power/efficiency of the powering device 502,adjust pulse width frequency and lamp efficiency, and adjustovercurrent. In at least one embodiment, the power controller 508 isconfigurable by adjusting the potentiometers 510 to provide maximum orotherwise increased UV light output from the UV lamp 140 with minimal orreduced amount of power.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device 502 provides highvoltage power to the UV lamp 140 with adjustable voltage, frequency,pulse width, and transient capabilities. The powering device 502 is ableto vary the operating temperature, UV output level, power consumption,and heat dissipation of the UV lamp 140.

As described herein, the powering device 502 is configured to providepower to the UV lamp 140 of a sanitizing system, such as the portablesanitizing system 100 (shown in FIG. 1 , for example). The poweringdevice 502 includes the one or more batteries 506 configured to providepower to the UV lamp, and the power controller 508 coupled to the one ormore batteries 506. The power controller 508 is configured to controlone or more aspects of the power provided from the one or more batteries506 to the UV lamp 140.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device 502 further includes theone or more potentiometers 510 coupled to the power controller 508. Theone or more potentiometers 510 are configured to adjust or otherwisecontrol aspects such as frequency, pulse width modulation, and/orcurrent with respect to the power provided to the UV lamp 140.

In at least one embodiment, the powering device 502 further includes oneor more switches 512, 514, and/or 516. In an example, the one or moreswitches are on or within the housing 504 of the powering device 502. Inanother example, the one or more switches are on or within the wandassembly 102. As an example, the switches include the power switch 512,the power boost switch 514, and the lamp power switch 516.

In at least one embodiment, the coupler 518 connects the batteries 506to the UV lamp 140. The coupler 518 may include an insulated wire. Thecoupler 518 may be configured to removably connect to (for example,selectively connect to an disconnect from) the UV lamp 140.

FIG. 25 illustrates a schematic diagram of the system 500 for providingpower to the UV lamp 140 of the wand assembly 102, according to anembodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the wand assembly 102may include the power switch 512, the power boost switch 514, and thelamp power switch 516. The system 500 may include more or less switchesthan shown.

A plurality of batteries 506 may be within a battery pack 507. Thebatteries 506 may be arranged in series and/or parallel. In at least oneembodiment, a transformer 530 is disposed between the batteries 506 andthe UV lamp 140. For example, the transformer 530 may be part of thecoupler 518, or disposed between the coupler 518 and the batteries 506or the UV lamp 140. The coupler 518 may include at least one insulatedlead wire extending between the transformer 530 and the UV lamp 140. Theat least one insulated lead wire may be a twisted pair of wires or acoaxial cable. The coaxial cable includes at least one core conductor,at least one insulation layer, and at least one metallic shieldinglayer. The at least one insulated lead wire may include at least onemetallic shielding layer that surrounds insulation layers and metalcores of the wire(s).

The power controller 508 is coupled to a plurality of potentiometers 510a, 510 b, and 510 c. The power controller 508 may include or otherwiseprovide a user interface, such as switches, keys, a touchscreeninterface, or the like, that is configured to allow a user to adjustvarious power settings through the potentiometers 510. Thepotentiometers 510 are configured to control various power parameters oraspects regarding the power delivered to the UV lamp 140. For example,the potentiometer 510 a is configured to adjust or otherwise control anominal output power/efficiency of the power supplied to the UV lamp140. The potentiometer 510 b is configured to adjust the frequency ofthe pulse width modulation of the power supplied to the UV lamp 140. Thepotentiometer 510 c is configured to adjust an overcurrent trip point ofthe power supplied to the UV lamp 140.

As shown, the potentiometers 510 a, 510 b, and 510 c may be outside ofthe power controller 508. Optionally, the potentiometers 510 a, 510 b,and 510 c may be within the power controller 508, such as mounted to acommon circuit board or the like. The system 500 may include more orless potentiometers than shown. For example, the system 500 may includeonly one or two of the potentiometers 510 a, 510 b, or 510 c.Optionally, the system 500 may include additional potentiometers thatare configured to adjust or otherwise control different aspects of thepower supplied to the UV lamp 140.

In at least one embodiment, current limit may be adjusted through apotentiometer. Pulse width modulation (PWM) may be adjusted through apotentiometer. Frequency may be adjusted through a potentiometer.Battery input may be through 120V direct current. The battery input maybe delivered to one or more field effect transistors (FETs). The powercontroller 508 in FIG. 25 has both a first PWM output (e.g., Output A)and a second PWM output (e.g., Output B) which provide electric currentto the transformer 530. In at least one other embodiment, the powercontroller 508 has a single power output that connects to the UV lamp140, instead of the dual PWM output shown in FIG. 25 .

The power switch 512 is configured to activate and deactivate the UVlamp 140. That is, the power switch 512 is configured to run the UV lamp140 on and off

The power boost switch 514 may have two different functions. The firstfunction may be to command a temporary power increase. For example, whenthe power boost switch 514 is engaged, a temporary (for example, 10seconds or less) power boost is supplied to the UV lamp 140.Additionally, the power boost switch 514 can provide starting aid orassist by increasing the voltage. For example, in cold temperatureenvironments, the UV lamp 140 may require a higher voltage to start theUV lamp 140, so the boost switch 514 can be engaged to provide a voltageincrease in cold environments, such as when the ambient temperature isless than 5° C., 0° C., or the like. Optionally, the system 500 may notinclude the power boost switch 514.

The lamp power switch 516 is configured to control the UV lamp powerlevel or output. For example, the lamp power switch 516 may be engagedto selectively increase or decrease lamp power output. Optionally, thesystem 500 may not include the lamp power switch 516.

FIG. 26 illustrates a flow chart of a method of providing power to anultraviolet lamp of a sanitizing system, according to an embodiment ofthe present disclosure. The method includes providing (600), by one ormore batteries of a powering device, power to the UV lamp, andcontrolling (602), from a power controller coupled to the one or morebatteries, one or more aspects of the power provided from the one ormore batteries to the UV lamp.

In at least one embodiment, the method also includes coupling one ormore potentiometers to the power controller. As a further example, themethod includes adjusting or otherwise controlling, by the one or morepotentiometers, frequency, pulse width modulation, and current withrespect to the power provided to the UV lamp.

In at least one embodiment, the method also includes connecting, by acoupler, the one or more batteries to the UV lamp.

In at least one embodiment, the method also includes disposing atransformer between the one or more batteries and the UV lamp.

FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system 500′ for providingpower to the UV lamp 140 of the wand assembly 102, in which the system500′ includes a power delivery assembly 700 according to a firstembodiment of the present disclosure. The power delivery assembly 700includes the battery pack 507, one or more low impedance capacitors 706,a charger 704, and an external power interface 702. The charger 704 iselectrically connected to both the external power interface 702 and thebattery pack 507, and is disposed between the external power interface702 and the battery pack 507. The battery pack 507 is electricallyconnected to the one or more capacitors 706, which receive the electriccurrent supplied by the battery pack 507.

The external power interface 702 can include or represent an electricalconnector (e.g., a socket, plug, or the like), a power cord, and/or thelike, for conveying electrical energy from an external power source tothe system 500′. The external power source may be a power circuitintegrated into a vehicle or building, a generator, an external batterypack, a solar panel of photovoltaic cells, or the like. The charger 704is used to selective charge the battery pack 507 based on electricalenergy received via the external power interface 702. The charger 704may be a constant current charger that includes a voltage-limited powerfactor correction (PFC) circuit and/or a rectifier. In a non-limitingexample in which the batteries 506 are lithium ion batteries, thecharger 704 may be a constant current, voltage-limited circuit and mayprovide cell equalization. The charger 704 with the PFC circuit may havethe capability to vary the output voltage to the battery pack 507.Optionally, the power boost input may control the PFC output voltage.

In at least one embodiment, the batteries 506 could be charged by anexternal power source that is connected to the interface 702, even whilethe system 500′ is operating and providing electrical energy to the UVlamp 140. For example, when connected to the external power source, thebatteries 506 may be maintained at a designated charge state, such aspeak charge, even when operating. Optionally, when power is receivedfrom the external power source, the charger 704 may be controlled (e.g.,via circuit switching devices) to bypass the battery pack 507 and supplycurrent directly to the capacitor(s) 706. The charger 704 could beconfigured with a peak power limit, which may be useful in conditionswith limited external power supply.

The one or more low impedance capacitors 706 receive the electricalenergy from the battery pack 507. The capacitor(s) 706 may temporarilystore the energy in order to supply high peak currents that may berequired during resonances of the excimer UV lamp 140.

The system 500′ may have the capability to operate on AC or DC externalpower. For example, if the external power is AC, the circuitry withinthe charger 704, such as a rectifier or the PFC circuit converts the ACto DC before supplying the DC to the battery pack 507. In an alternativeembodiment, the power delivery assembly 700 does not include theexternal power interface 702 and the charger 704. For example, once thebatteries 506 are depleted, the batteries 506 may have to be removed andrecharged or replaced. Omitting the internal charger 704 can reduceweight and/or manufacturing costs. In another embodiment, the powerdelivery assembly 700 may retain the external power interface 702 andomit the integrated charger 704, such that the batteries 506 can beselectively charged by connecting the external power interface 702 to anexternal charger.

FIG. 28 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system 500″ for providingpower to the UV lamp 140 of the wand assembly 102, in which the system500″ includes a power delivery assembly 700′ according to anotherembodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, thepower delivery assembly 700′ lacks the battery pack 507 and charger 704.The power delivery assembly 700′ includes the external power interface702, a rectifier 708, and the one or more low impedance capacitors 706.The rectifier 708 is electrically connected to the interface 702 and thecapacitor(s) 706, and is disposed between the interface 702 and thecapacitor(s) 706. The rectifier 708 may receive AC electrical energyfrom the interface 702, convert the AC to DC, and supply the DC to thecapacitor(s) 706. The lack of battery pack and charger may reduce weightand/or manufacturing costs. In the illustrated embodiment, the externalpower interface 702 has to be connected to, and receiving current from,an external power source for the system 500″ to operate and power the UVlamp 140.

Further, the disclosure comprises embodiments according to the followingclauses:

Clause 1. A powering device configured to provide power to anultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system, the powering devicecomprising:

a power delivery assembly configured to provide power to the UV lamp;and

a power controller coupled to the power delivery assembly, wherein thepower controller is configured to control one or more aspects of thepower provided from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Clause 2. The powering device of Clause 1, wherein the UV lamp is withina sanitizing head of a wand assembly.

Clause 3. The powering device of Clause 2, wherein the powering deviceis within a backpack assembly coupled to the wand assembly.

Clause 4. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-3, wherein the UV lampis an excimer lamp configured to emit UV light having a wavelength of222 nm.

Clause 5. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-4, further comprisingone or more potentiometers coupled to the power controller andconfigured to adjust or otherwise control frequency, pulse widthmodulation, and current with respect to the power provided to the UVlamp.

Clause 6. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-5, wherein the powerdelivery assembly includes a battery pack and at least one capacitor,the at least one capacitor configured to receive electric current fromthe battery pack and supply the electric current to a transformer.

Clause 7. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-6, further comprisinga power switch, a power boost switch, and a lamp power switch.

Clause 8. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-7, further comprisinga coupler that connects the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Clause 9. The powering device of Clause 8, wherein the coupler comprisesa twisted pair of insulated wires.

Clause 10. The powering device of Clause 8, wherein the couplercomprises a coaxial cable including an insulation layer and a metallicshielding layer that surrounds the insulation layer.

Clause 11. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-10, furthercomprising a transformer disposed between the power delivery assemblyand the UV lamp.

Clause 12. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-11, furthercomprising a power boost switch selectively actuatable to command atemporary power increase from the power delivery assembly to the UVlamp.

Clause 13. The powering device of any of Clauses 1-12, wherein the powerdelivery assembly comprises an external power interface, a charger, abattery pack, and at least one capacitor, wherein the charger isconfigured to receive electric current from the external power interfaceand supply the electric current to at least one of the battery pack orthe at least one capacitor.

Clause 14. A method of providing power to an ultraviolet (UV) lamp of asanitizing system, the method comprising:

providing, by a power delivery assembly of a powering device, power tothe UV lamp; and

controlling, from a power controller coupled to the power deliveryassembly, one or more aspects of the power provided from the powerdelivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Clause 15. The method of Clause 14, further comprising:

coupling one or more potentiometers to the power controller; and

adjusting or otherwise controlling, by the one or more potentiometers,frequency, pulse width modulation, and current with respect to the powerprovided to the UV lamp.

Clause 16. The method of Clause 14 or 15, further comprising connecting,by a coupler, the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp.

Clause 17. The method of any of Clauses 14-16, further comprisingdisposing a transformer between the power delivery assembly and the UVlamp.

Clause 18. A powering device configured to provide power to anultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system, the powering devicecomprising:

a power delivery assembly configured to provide power to the UV lamp,the power delivery assembly including a battery pack and at least onecapacitor;

a power controller coupled to the power delivery assembly, wherein thepower controller is configured to control one or more aspects of thepower provided from the power delivery assembly to the UV lamp;

one or more potentiometers coupled to the power controller, wherein theone or more potentiometers are configured to adjust or otherwise controlfrequency, pulse width modulation, and current with respect to the powerprovided to the UV lamp;

a transformer disposed between the power delivery assembly and the UVlamp, the at least one capacitor configured to receive electric currentfrom the battery pack and supply the electric current to thetransformer; and

a coupler that connects the transformer to the UV lamp, wherein thecoupler includes at least one insulated wire that is surrounded by ametallic shielding layer.

Clause 19. The powering device of Clause 18, wherein the at least oneinsulated wire of the coupler comprises a twisted pair of two insulatedwires.

Clause 20. The powering device of Clause 18 or 19, wherein the powerdelivery assembly further comprises an external power interface and acharger, the external power interface configured to connect to anexternal power source, the charger configured to receive electriccurrent from the external power source, via the external powerinterface, and supply the electric current to at least one of thebattery pack or the at least one capacitor.

As described herein, embodiments of the present disclosure providesystems and methods for providing power to a UV lamp, such as a 222 nmexcimer lamp of a wand assembly of a portable sanitizing system.

While various spatial and directional terms, such as top, bottom, lower,mid, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front and the like can be used todescribe embodiments of the present disclosure, it is understood thatsuch terms are merely used with respect to the orientations shown in thedrawings. The orientations can be inverted, rotated, or otherwisechanged, such that an upper portion is a lower portion, and vice versa,horizontal becomes vertical, and the like.

As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is “configuredto” perform a task or operation is particularly structurally formed,constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the task oroperation. For purposes of clarity and the avoidance of doubt, an objectthat is merely capable of being modified to perform the task oroperation is not “configured to” perform the task or operation as usedherein.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to beillustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-describedembodiments (and/or aspects thereof) can be used in combination witheach other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt aparticular situation or material to the teachings of the variousembodiments of the disclosure without departing from their scope. Whilethe dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended todefine the parameters of the various embodiments of the disclosure, theembodiments are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Manyother embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments ofthe disclosure should, therefore, be determined with reference to theappended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which suchclaims are entitled. In the appended claims and the detailed descriptionherein, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as theplain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and“wherein.” Moreover, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. areused merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numericalrequirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the followingclaims are not written in means-plus-function format and are notintended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f), unless and untilsuch claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed bya statement of function void of further structure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the variousembodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and also toenable any person skilled in the art to practice the various embodimentsof the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems andperforming any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the variousembodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and can includeother examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such otherexamples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if theexamples have structural elements that do not differ from the literallanguage of the claims, or if the examples include equivalent structuralelements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A powering device configured to provide power toan ultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system, the powering devicecomprising: a power delivery assembly configured to provide power to theUV lamp; a power controller coupled to the power delivery assembly,wherein the power controller is configured to control one or moreaspects of the power provided from the power delivery assembly to the UVlamp; and a power boost switch selectively actuatable to command atemporary power increase from the power delivery assembly to the UVlamp.
 2. The powering device of claim 1, wherein the UV lamp is within asanitizing head of a wand assembly.
 3. The powering device of claim 2,wherein the powering device is within a backpack assembly coupled to thewand assembly.
 4. The powering device of claim 1, wherein the UV lamp isan excimer lamp configured to emit UV light having a wavelength of 222nm.
 5. The powering device of claim 1, further comprising one or morepotentiometers coupled to the power controller and configured to adjustor otherwise control frequency, pulse width modulation, and current withrespect to the power provided to the UV lamp.
 6. The powering device ofclaim 1, wherein the power delivery assembly includes a battery pack andat least one capacitor, the at least one capacitor configured to receiveelectric current from the battery pack and supply the electric currentto a transformer.
 7. The powering device of claim 1, further comprising:a power switch; and a lamp power switch.
 8. The powering device of claim1, further comprising a coupler that connects the power deliveryassembly to the UV lamp.
 9. The powering device of claim 8, wherein thecoupler comprises a twisted pair of insulated wires.
 10. The poweringdevice of claim 8, wherein the coupler comprises a coaxial cableincluding an insulation layer and a metallic shielding layer thatsurrounds the insulation layer.
 11. The powering device of claim 1,further comprising a transformer disposed between the power deliveryassembly and the UV lamp.
 12. The powering device of claim 1, whereinthe power delivery assembly comprises an external power interface, acharger, a battery pack, and at least one capacitor, wherein the chargeris configured to receive electric current from the external powerinterface and supply the electric current to at least one of the batterypack or the at least one capacitor.
 13. A powering device configured toprovide power to an ultraviolet (UV) lamp of a sanitizing system, thepowering device comprising: a power delivery assembly configured toprovide power to the UV lamp, the power delivery assembly including abattery pack and at least one capacitor; a power controller coupled tothe power delivery assembly, wherein the power controller is configuredto control one or more aspects of the power provided from the powerdelivery assembly to the UV lamp; one or more potentiometers coupled tothe power controller, wherein the one or more potentiometers areconfigured to adjust or otherwise control frequency, pulse widthmodulation, and current with respect to the power provided to the UVlamp; a transformer disposed between the power delivery assembly and theUV lamp, the at least one capacitor configured to receive electriccurrent from the battery pack and supply the electric current to thetransformer; and a coupler that connects the transformer to the UV lamp,wherein the coupler includes at least one insulated wire that issurrounded by a metallic shielding layer.
 14. The powering device ofclaim 13, wherein the at least one insulated wire of the couplercomprises a twisted pair of two insulated wires.
 15. The powering deviceof claim 13, wherein the power delivery assembly further comprises anexternal power interface and a charger, the external power interfaceconfigured to connect to an external power source, the chargerconfigured to receive electric current from the external power source,via the external power interface, and supply the electric current to atleast one of the battery pack or the at least one capacitor.
 16. Apowering device configured to provide power to an ultraviolet (UV) lampof a sanitizing system, the powering device comprising: a power deliveryassembly configured to provide power to the UV lamp; a power controllercoupled to the power delivery assembly, wherein the power controller isconfigured to control one or more aspects of the power provided from thepower delivery assembly to the UV lamp; and a coupler that connects thepower delivery assembly to the UV lamp, wherein the coupler comprises acoaxial cable including an insulation layer and a metallic shieldinglayer that surrounds the insulation layer.
 17. The powering device ofclaim 16, wherein the UV lamp is within a sanitizing head of a wandassembly.
 18. The powering device of claim 16, further comprising one ormore potentiometers coupled to the power controller and configured toadjust or otherwise control frequency, pulse width modulation, andcurrent with respect to the power provided to the UV lamp.
 19. Thepowering device of claim 16, wherein the power delivery assemblyincludes a battery pack and at least one capacitor, the at least onecapacitor configured to receive electric current from the battery packand supply the electric current to a transformer.
 20. The poweringdevice of claim 16, wherein the power delivery assembly comprises anexternal power interface, a charger, a battery pack, and at least onecapacitor, wherein the charger is configured to receive electric currentfrom the external power interface and supply the electric current to atleast one of the battery pack or the at least one capacitor.